Richards Bay vs Orlando Pirates: Battle lines drawn for epic showdown

Richards Bay will be looking to pull off a major upset and end Orlando Pirates’ hopes of a cup double when the two sides clash in the Carling Knockout semi-final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 8 November.

The best part? You can watch it live and free on SuperSport PSL (Channel 202) as part of DStv’s Open Time weekend. Kick-off: 15:00 CAT

Current Form

Richards Bay are unbeaten in their last three matches across all competitions. They drew 1-1 with Sekhukhune United in midweek and edged Durban City 3-1 after extra time in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals.

This marks their third consecutive semi-final appearance in the tournament, and they’ll be motivated by the memory of knocking out Pirates in 2023.

Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, are riding a five-match unbeaten streak, including a 3-1 win over Golden Arrows and a 2-1 victory over Magesi FC to end the defending champions’ run. With the MTN8 trophy already secured, the Buccaneers are chasing a rare domestic cup double.

Nazoo! The 2025 #CarlingKnockout Semi-Finals are locked in. ⚽🔥Siyabangena eThekwini nge-Weekend Enkulu ka November.🏆

Using #CarlingKnockout QT which match are you excited to watch, and what’s in your cooler box, keotlatse 🍺 pic.twitter.com/GA2rUn4G4P

— Carling Black Label ᅠᅠᅠᅠ (@blacklabelsa) October 31, 2025

 Team News

• Richards Bay: No injuries or suspensions reported, but goalkeeper Salim Magoola is expected to miss out due to religious observance.
• Orlando Pirates: Selaelo Rasebotja and Thabiso Sesane remain sidelined. Olisa Ndah and Makhehlene Makhaula are doubtful due to fitness concerns.

Coach Quotes

Ronnie Gabriel (Richards Bay)
“We beat them before, and we believe we can do it again. The players are ready for the pressure and the big stage.”

Abdeslam Ouaddou (Orlando Pirates)
“We respect Richards Bay. They’ll be proud to play in Durban and will want both KZN teams in the final. It’ll be a tough game.”

Players to Watch

• Frank Mhango (Richards Bay) – Former Pirates striker, in form and hungry to haunt his old club.
• Yanela Mbuthuma (Pirates) – KZN-born forward, fresh off a brace against Arrows, aiming to shine again against his former club.

Prediction

Richards Bay will be fired up and have history on their side, but Pirates’ experience and attacking depth could prove decisive.

Prediction: Orlando Pirates to edge it 2-1
Expect a tight contest with late drama.

Where to Watch

• 📺 SuperSport PSL (Channel 202)
• 🆓 Free for all active DStv decoder subscribers
• 📅 Saturday, 8 November
• 🕒 Kick-off: 15:00 CAT

No upgrades needed – it’s all part of the DStv Open Time weekend (7–9 November).